The water used in swimming pools contain chlorine and other chemicals to eliminate germs and algae. These chemicals can irritate the eye, making them more vulnerable to infections. Here are some common problems people face after swimming in the pool:
- Red eyes
- Burning sensation
- Discharge from the eyes
- Corneal abrasion
- Conjunctivitis
- Swelling of the eyes
- Excessive tears
- Light sensitivity
To avoid eye problems caused due to pool water, our eye doctors in Kolkata have put together a list of swimming pool eye safety tips:
1. Wear good swimming goggles:
This is one of the most effective ways to protect your eyes from any infection. Buy good-quality swimming goggles. Before buying swimming goggles, make sure you try them on. The reason why swimming goggles leak is because they don’t fit well. While buying make sure they properly fit your head and the eyes.
2. Remove contact lenses when swimming:
Wearing contact lenses while swimming can be dangerous. The lenses can absorb the water. This can cause bacteria, viruses or other pathogens to get into your eyes. Swimming in lakes, rivers and oceans can be all the more dangerous than swimming in a pool as the water may contain more bacteria, viruses and other harmful pathogens.
3. Apply lubricating eye drops for dry eyes:
If you suffer from dry eyes, use prescribed eye drops or tear gel that help in keeping the eye moist. These drops and gels help protect the tear film and prevent entry of bacteria and infectants in the eye. Consult an eye doctor for suitable eye drops or gels.
Note : Dry eyes is an increasing problem where the eyes don’t produce enough tears or tears are of a poor quality and hence can’t provide adequate lubrication for your eyes.
4. Wash your eyes with clean water after swimming:
This is one of the most important things that people often forget to do. Washing your eyes with clean water after swimming helps in removing chlorine and other chemicals that may be stuck to your eyelashes or eyelids. Always close your eyes before splashing fresh water onto them.
5. Wear sunglasses:
Wearing sunglasses is a good way of protecting your eyes from the UV rays. Wear swimming goggles when swimming and sunglasses when not swimming by the pool. This is because UV rays can damage your eyes.
6. Cold compress eyes if irritated:
After swimming if you are feeling irritation or are developing symptoms of an eye problem, try applying cold compress on your eyes. If this does not help, it is best to consult an eye doctor without wasting time.
Note: Staying hydrated is one of the most important things for swimmers. Stay hydrated before, while swimming and after. This is because swimming burns a lot of calories and also results in quick loss of water. Dehydration while swimming can cause muscle fatigue, cramps and dizziness. Reduction in water level of the body can also result in dry eyes and can lead to sunken eyes.
Are you looking for the best eye doctor in Kolkata?
If you are suffering from any eye-related problems, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have some of the best eye doctors in Kolkata on board. Our eye doctors can not only help you get the right diagnosis of your symptoms but also guide you with the right treatment options. Our eye doctors have access to the latest diagnostic and imaging tools to diagnose the cause of your problem.